Petrol prices in Pakistan are expected to rise once again in the upcoming fuel price review, adding further pressure on consumers already dealing with high inflation and increasing transportation costs.
According to fresh estimates from the oil industry, the ex-refinery price of petrol may increase by around Rs. 4.75 per litre. The projected price is expected to move from Rs. 270.03 to Rs. 274.77 per litre due to rising international oil prices.
Industry sources say the increase is mainly linked to higher global crude oil prices during the review period. The international Free on Board (FOB) price for petrol reportedly climbed from $139.03 per barrel to $143.01 per barrel.
Meanwhile, high-speed diesel (HSD) is expected to see only a minor increase of around Rs. 0.20 per litre. Despite a sharp rise in global diesel prices, reductions in customs duty and incidental costs helped stabilize the local impact.
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Pakistan has witnessed continuous fuel price fluctuations in recent weeks due to global market instability, regional tensions in the Middle East, and IMF-linked fiscal adjustments. Earlier this month, the government already increased petrol prices by Rs. 6.51 per litre, pushing rates close to Rs. 400 per litre.
Experts warn that another petrol price hike could trigger further inflation, increasing transportation fares and the prices of daily-use goods across the country. Rising fuel costs are also affecting businesses, agriculture, and logistics sectors.
The final decision on petroleum prices is expected to be announced by the federal government later this week after reviewing international oil market trends and exchange rate movements.
